What type of file format is .bmp?

The .bmp file format, which stands for Bitmap, is indeed an uncompressed image file format. This means that when a .bmp file is created, it contains the raw pixel data without any compression applied. Each pixel's color value is stored in a straightforward, direct manner, allowing for high-quality images that preserve the details without losing information due to compression artifacts.

Being uncompressed allows .bmp files to maintain high fidelity in terms of color representation and clarity. However, this also means that .bmp files can be quite large in size compared to compressed formats, which optimize file size by reducing some image data. The simplicity of the .bmp format makes it suitable for scenarios where image quality is paramount, despite the trade-off of larger file sizes.

The other options, such as a compressed image file, encrypted data file, or text-based file format, do not accurately describe the characteristics of .bmp files. Understanding the nature of .bmp files, particularly their lack of compression, is essential when working with image files in digital media contexts.